Primary intracranial myxopapillary ependymoma: two case reports and literature review

Myxopapillary ependymoma (MPE), a histological variant of ependymoma, is characterized by a radial arrangement of spindled or epithelioid tumor cells surrounding blood vessels, accompanied by perivascular myxoid changes and microcyst formation. MPE typically occurs in young adults, predominantly in the conus medullaris, cauda equina, and filum terminale. However, primary intracranial MPEs, especially those arising in the cerebral parenchyma, are exceptionally rare. Here, we present two cases of isolated MPEs located in the frontal lobe to underscore their extraordinary rarity. We provide a comprehensive analysis of their clinical characteristics, imaging findings, and pathological features to deepen the understanding and recognition of this rare entity.